Where to stay in Hersonissos: the harbour, the hill villages or a quiet beach
Hersonissos is not one place. The harbour has the parties, the hill has quiet villages and the edges have family beaches. Here is how to pick an area.
- The harbour area suits people who come to party: bars, beach clubs and music until morning.
- The hill villages of Koutouloufari, Piskopiano and Old Hersonissos are quieter, with tavernas and views.
- Anissaras to the west and Analipsi suit families looking for a quiet beach.
Pick the area by the kind of holiday you want: party-goers stay by the harbour; families and couples stay in the villages or quieter beach areas and come down to the promenade in the evening.
Where is Hersonissos?
Hersonissos is on the north coast of Crete, about 25 km east of Heraklion and about 18 km from Heraklion airport, so you reach your hotel soon after landing. Flight details in flights to Crete.
The areas at a glance
| Area | Character | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Harbour and promenade | Bars, beach clubs, music | Young people and party-goers |
| Old Hersonissos (Pano Hersonissos) | Inland village with traditional tavernas | Couples and families wanting atmosphere |
| Koutouloufari | Hill village with views and quiet | Couples and families |
| Piskopiano | Hill village known for summer festivals | Couples and families |
| Anissaras | Western area, quieter and more scenic | A quiet stay near the sea |
| Analipsi | Family beach area | Families with children |
The harbour: for nightlife
The harbour is a seafront strip of bars, beach clubs and music venues. You can walk to everything, but it is noisy at night. See Hersonissos nightlife.
The hill villages: quiet with a view
Koutouloufari, Piskopiano and Old Hersonissos are traditional villages above town, with lanes, tavernas and sea views, and much quieter nights. The promenade and beaches are a few minutes' drive away. For couples this is usually the nicest choice.
Anissaras and Analipsi: beaches for families
Anissaras, west of town, is popular for quieter, more scenic stays. Analipsi is a family beach area. With children, start your search here.
Types of accommodation
Hersonissos has a wide range: all-inclusive resorts, boutique hotels, holiday apartments and budget studios, plus adults-only hotels and family resorts with waterparks. Prices and terms change by season, so check what is included before you book, especially all-inclusive.
Kosher and Shabbat
Hersonissos is home to Chabad of Crete. If you want to walk there on Shabbat, choose a hotel nearby: see kosher and Chabad in Hersonissos and kosher hotels in Crete.
Getting around
A hire car lets you explore central and eastern Crete. See car rental in Crete.
FAQ
What is the quietest area of Hersonissos? The hill villages of Koutouloufari, Piskopiano and Old Hersonissos, and Anissaras to the west.
Where should families stay in Hersonissos? Analipsi or Anissaras, by a beach and away from the harbour noise.
How far is Hersonissos from the airport? About 18 km from Heraklion airport and 25 km from Heraklion city.
Are there all-inclusive hotels in Hersonissos? Yes, alongside boutique hotels and holiday apartments.
